Classical North India Tour

-Private driver for the entire stay and English speaking driver for the excursions

-Entrance fees

-Airfare for Khajuraho – Varanasi – Delhi sectors in economy class

-Rickshaw ride in Dehli and Varasani

-Elephant Ride in Jaipur

-Culinary session and meal with a local family or in a traditional restaurant

-Train Agra-Jhansi (Chair car class)

-Morning and evening boat ride in Varanasi

-Session with an Astrologer

See the best of India

You’ll explore the best of this amazing country on your 10-day tour

Explore New Delhi, Jaipur, Agra and more

Itinerary

Day 1 – New Delhi

Your private driver will meet you in the arrival area of the airport after you clear all immigration and custom formalities. Depart for your hotel and check in for your stay. Rest of the day at your leisure.

Delhi is India’s capital and a major gateway to the country. Perhaps there is no other capital city in the world so steeped in history and legend as the Indian capital Delhi. It was the magnet, which drew the Mongols, Turks, Persians, Afghans, Mughals and the British, all of whom contributed to its glorious but turbulent past. The fascination with Delhi was such that even though it was abandoned many times, its rulers returned to it again and again rebuilding it at least seven times. Today, the twin cities of Old and New Delhi still intrigue Indians and tourists alike as the cultural and political capital of the largest democracy in the world.

Day 2 – New Delhi

You will start your day with a private tour of Old Delhi, the capital of Mughal dynasty between the 16th and 19th centuries. Visit Jama Masjid – the largest mosque in India built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. From here, board the cycle rickshaws for a tour of Chandni Chowk, known as The Moonlit Square of India. As you drive through the narrow lanes, witness the architectural marvels, the multicolored facades, beautifully decorated shops, ethnically dressed men and women and get bombarded by the cries of hawkers and fragrances emanating from the potpourri of eateries that line these historical alleys.

During the British regime, the street underwent major changes and since then this area has witnessed some of the most important events in Indian history. Today these splendid ruins and tales of valor are a testimony of the evolution of the times. Chandni Chowk truly reflects the national unity, secularism and diversity of India.

Continue to a Gurudwara (sikh temple) and witness the community kitchen where thousands of worshippers are fed round the clock. Next drive through New Delhi, passing by Presidential Palace- the one-time imperial residence of the British viceroys; the India Gate – a memorial raised in honour of the Indian soldiers martyred during the Afghan war, Parliament house and other government buildings built in the first quarter of the 20th century by two famous English architects, Sir Herbert Baker and Sir Edwin Lutyens. It was during this time period that the capital of the British Empire was shifted from Calcutta to Delhi.

The tour to Imperial Delhi will include a visit to the Qutub Minar, the tallest stone tower as well as one of the finest Islamic structures raised in India. Then visit Humayun’s tomb, built by the widow of the second Mughal Emperor, Humayun, it is an outstanding monument in the Indo-Persian style, a precursor of the Taj Mahal.

Day 3 – Jaipur

After your breakfast, your private driver takes you to Jaipur.

Jaipur is popularly known as the Pink City, thanks to the color of the buildings in the city. The city built in 1727 A.D by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II followed a grid system, which made it the only planned city of its time. A young Bengali architect Vidhyadhar Bhattacharya designed the city in accordance with Shilp Shastra – an ancient Hindu treatise on architecture. On arrival check-into the hotel.

In the evening you will be transferred to the city for a special culinary session and meal with a local family. After a short introduction, get into an informal chat talking on diverse topics ranging from History, Craft and Culture of this fabled city. You will be given an introduction to common Indian spices and herbs, a cooking demonstration and a delicious dinner of local specialties with the family.We can also arrange a dinner in a traditional restaurant instead.

Day 4 – Jaipur

After breakfast, visit the sprawling Amer Fort with your private guide. Jaipur’s Maharaja Man Singh, Mughal Emperor Akbar’s most successful General, started constructing Amer Fort in the 17 century. Before the City Palace was constructed in Jaipur, Amer was the seat of power. The Fort is surrounded by fortified battlements and overlooks the Moat Lake. Once you are on top, stroll through the sprawling complex of courtyards and halls. Many of the rooms have delightful wall paintings, with precious stones and mirrors inlaid in the walls. Most fascinating, perhaps, is the Sheesh Mahal (hall of mirrors) where a single lamplight is reflected in the many mirrors, lighting up the room.

Return to the city, with a photo-stop at Hawa Mahal (the Palace of Winds). Five stories in height, and built of red and pink sandstone highlighted with white quicklime, it is thought that the women of the royal harem used the many casements to observe everyday life in the street below without being seen.

Continue to Jantar Mantar, an observatory built by Sawai Jai Singh ll in the 18th century. The Maharajah,a scientist as well as an astronomer, had the principles of Euclid translated into Sanskrit. One of the most remarkable sites in Jaipur, the Jantar Mantar has fourteen major geometric devices for measuring time, predicting eclipses and tracking stars and planets. Just next to the observatory is the City Palace. Built within the fortified area of the original city, it has one of the finest monumental entrances in India. The Palace is now principally a museum housing a collection of great treasures, including miniature paintings, carpets, royal garments and other interesting objects from Jaipur’s intriguing past. The former royal family retains a part of the palace for their personal use.

Day 5 – Agra

After your breakfast, head to Agra with your private driver passing some incredible scenery. You will stop enroute at Fatehpur Sikri – the deserted red sandstone city, an outstanding example of Mughal architecture built by the Great Mughal Emperor Akbar as his capital and palace in the late 16th century and abandoned after 15 years due to scarcity of water. It was a veritable fairy tale city and its ‘ruins’ are still in a perfect condition.

Continue to Agra and on arrival, check- into the hotel.

Agra in terms of ambiance is still associated with its Mughal period. The Mughals besides being great rulers were also great builders and they preserved their best architectural wonders for Agra & its neighborhood. It has many wonderful monuments and the Taj Mahal, the greatest of them all, is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture at its best. Their architectural genius can also be seen in the forts, palaces and aesthetically laid out gardens – each one is a silent witness to a grand style of a golden era.

Day 6 – Agra

Today you will have to rise early for a private visit of the Taj Mahal (closed on Friday). It is fitting to see this extraordinary monument by the first light of day as its exemplary beauty is awe inspiring and will create an unforgettable memory. Said to be one of the most elegant and a harmonious building in the world, Taj Mahal was built by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan in 1630 AD to enshrine the mortal remains of his beloved Queen Mumtaz Mahal. Taj Mahal manifests the wealth and luxury of Mughal art as seen in architecture and garden design, painting, and calligraphy. The 144 foot double dome of the Taj is capped with a finial and the four minarets each 131 ft high and crowned by an open octagonal pavilion highlight the perfect symmetry of the tomb.

Return to hotel for breakfast.

Later, you will go to the Agra Fort, which was the seat and the stronghold of the Mughal Empire under successive generations. This was the seat of Mughal rule and administration and the present structure owes its origins to Akbar who erected the walls and gates and the first buildings on the eastern banks of Yamuna River. Shah Jehan added the impressive quarters and the mosque while Aurangzeb added the outer ramparts. Visit its Hall of Public Audience and its Royal Pavilions.

From here continue to the 18 century Roman Catholic Cemetery – a 450+ year old and North India’s oldest christian cemetery. The tombs in Agra’s Roman Catholic Cemetery are the resting places of initially the Armenian Christians in the 1550s and thereafter, of other European Catholics in the city. The European Christians in Agra were creating their own fairy-tale like mausoleums in a cemetery dating back to Akbar’s time in carved red sandstone, yellow basalt and whitewashed plastered walls. However, the tomb that stands out from all the rest is that of British Colonel John Hessing also known as Islamic mausoleum for Christian souls… The Red Taj Mahal (small replica of Taj Mahal built in red sandstone).

Afternoon is at your leisure.

Day 7 – Khajuraho

After your breakfast, private transfer to the railway station and board the train to Jhansi.

This train journey will offer you the opportunity to see the early morning life around the country side. Please note, on this train, seat will be in air conditioned Chair car coach class. Though Indian Railways is the largest rail network in Asia, travel by train in India isn’t similar to travel on Amtrak or European rail service. You will be assisted in boarding the correct coach, seat and once you have reached Jhansi, your private driver will pick you up at the platform to go to Orchha.

Orchha was founded in the 16th century by the Bundela king, Rudhra Pratap, on the banks of the Betwa River. This is a a medieval city frozen in time and space, existing even today as it must have done in the 16th and 17th centuries, when it was built. The countryside undulates gently between riverine plains and rolling forest-clad hills and the landscape is dotted with palaces and temples, a fortress and cenotaphs. The architecture is a synthesis of traditional Hindu, hybrid Indo-Saracenic and ornate Mughal. One of the finest sights is the view of the cenotaphs from across the Betwa River. Visit the Jehangir Mahal, the most grandiose structure in Orchha; the Raja Mahal Rai Praveen Mahal.

A lunch will be provided at the nearby Amar Mahal and then drive to Khajuraho where all of life — joy, love, divinity, war — is depicted in fine detail on every inch of its 85 Hindu and Jain temples. Khajuraho was built by the Chandela dynasty, which rose to power in Central India between the 10th and 11th centuries and is home to some 25 odd temples depicting the different facets of life, including the erotic.These erotic carvings on some panels have given rise to much speculation since Khajuraho’s rediscovery by a British officer in 1838. To preserve it for posterity, Khajuraho has been declared a World Heritage Site and is among the prominent destinations on the world tourism map.

On arrival, check in for your stay.

Day 8 – Varanasi

This morning, explore the famous Western Group of Temples with your private guide.

The name Khajuraho is derived from the Hindi word khajur meaning date palm. The city was once the religious capital of the Chandela Rajputs, a Hindu dynasty that ruled this part of India from the 10th to the 12th centuries. The Khajuraho temples were built over a span of a hundred years, from 950 to 1050. The whole area was enclosed by a wall with eight gates, each flanked by two golden palm trees. There were originally over 80 Hindu temples, of which only 22 now stand in a reasonable state of preservation, scattered over an area of about 8 square miles (21 km²).

The temples of Khajuraho are an example of religion laced with erotica. They are fine examples of Indian architectural styles that have gained popularity due to their salacious depiction of the traditional way of life during medieval times. They were rediscovered only during the 20th century and the jungles had taken a toll on some of the monuments.

In the afternoon, your private driver will drop you off at the airport to fly to Varanasi, a city of more than a thousand temples and shrines, sacred to Hindus and Buddhists alike (Please note, luggage allowance on this flight is 33 pounds checked in baggage and 15 pounds hand luggage).On arrival, your private driver will be waiting for your to take you to your hotel and check in for your stay.

The ‘eternal city’, Varanasi or Benares, is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India, and the Ganges, which flows through the city, is believed to have the power to wash away the sins of mortals. For the Satpious Hindu, the city has always been a special place, and it is considered a particularly auspicious place to die, ensuring an instant routing to Heaven. On arrival, assisted transfer to the hotel.

This evening, your guide and driver will take you to the banks of the sacred Ganges for a special evening cruise on the Ganges River on candle lit country boats to see the devout Hindus performing the “Arti Puja” with lighted lamps. The presiding priests stand on a Chauki (wooden stand) near the water. To the chant of Sanskrit mantras, and the clash of cymbals and drums, the river is worshipped with flowers, incense, sandalwood, milk and vermilion. First the blazing camphor lamp and then the many flamed aarti lamps are raised high and then arched back to the water, the dark river reflecting the golden flames as Ganges accepts the worship. It is the Ganges that gives Varanasi its spiritual resonance.

Day 9 – Varanasi

Early this morning, leave the hotel with your driver and your guide to take a boat ride on the sacred Ganges. Hindus regard the Ganges as the elixir of life bringing purity to the living and salvation to the dead. Watch the wonderful colors of the sunrise as you meander along the sacred Ganges River in a boat. As part of their pilgrimage rites, the faithful walk down steps into the river to perform their religious ablutions. Watching the people worshipping at the ghats is an extraordinary experience. You may also witness a funeral pyre, an essential part of the traditional Hindu funeral ceremony.

Disembark the boat and walk with your guide through the narrow streets of Varanasi before returning to the hotel. This walk will take you through an inextricable maze of small streets and alleyways, hiding in disorderly array no less than 2,000 temples and shrines. Domes, pinnacles, towers and derelict 18th-century palaces dominate the left bank of the Ganges River. The streets are noisy, color is rife.

Return to the hotel with your driver and your guide for breakfast. Later, you will visit with your guide the holy city of Sarnath. Here in Sarnath, Buddha is said to have preached his first sermon after achieving enlightenment, setting in motion the wheel of law. Right near the Dhamekh Stupa are the remains of Ashoka’s pillar, with his name engraved in the stone. The stupa is believed to mark the spot where Buddha preached his sermon at Deer Park. Sarnath is also home to the museum that houses the iconic Ashoka Pillar with its four guardian lions, the emblem of independent India. Around the site are a series of temples built by Buddhist groups from around the world. You will have the special opportunity to chant with the monks at one of the Buddhist Temples.

Afternoon is at your leisure.

In the evening, interact with an Astrologer at the hotel to understand the importance of constellation and how Indian astrology works. There will also be opportunity for to ask questions.

Day 10 – Departure

In the morning, depending on your flight schedule, you may partake in Yoga session at the hotel. Yoga, the word derived from the Sanskrit word “Yuj”, means to bind, join, attach and yoke, to direct and concentrate one’s attention on, to use and apply. While practicing Yoga, one exercises yoking of all the powers of body, mind and soul.

You will be taken to the airport by your private driver to fly to Delhi and connect your flight home. (Please note, luggage allowance on this flight is 33 pounds checked in baggage and 15 pounds hand luggage).

Price/Hotels

Dates

Price Per Person From

Departs Daily

$2,800

Hotel Experience

THE TAJ MAHAL HOTEL: NEW DELHI

The Taj Mahal hotel is a luxury hotel located on Mansingh Road, New Delhi. Central to the Taj Mahal Hotel’s prominence is it’s old world grace and charm, blended effortlessly with contemporary comforts and amenities.

The accommodation area consists of 294 rooms including 27 suites namely the Taj Club, executive suites, luxury suites and the grand presidential suite.

FAIRMONT JAIPUR HOTEL: JAIPUR

Jaipur, the “Pink City” and the stunning capital of the Indian state of Rajasthan, is a hub for tourists and visitors from all over the world, looking to explore and discover a history that is rich and vibrant even today, evident in the city’s breathtaking forts and palaces. Tranquil gardens and broad avenues, which were painted pink in 1876 to welcome the Prince of Wales, add to the historic charm and rich culture of this unforgettable city.

Fairmont Jaipur is an ode to the pink city through awe inspiring architecture and decor, inspired by the Mughal dynasty and Royal Rajputs of yore. This luxury Jaipur hotel is nestled amongst the majestic Aravalli hills, all 199 rooms and suites are elegantly appointed, to reflect a perfect blend of traditional Rajasthani décor and modern amenities.

Dine with Friends
The opulent accommodation is complemented with an array of eclectic dining options, from the vibrant and energetic Zoya, all day dining restaurant, with a special emphasis on authentic Rajasthani cuisine, the charming Anjum, where Fairmont’s internationally celebrated tea drinking culture comes to India with an exciting local twist, to the elegant Aza, our library bar for a quiet evening of aperitifs and signature cocktails.

Explore and Discover
Fairmont Jaipur offers a multitude of outdoor activities and excursions ranging from exhilarating hot air ballooning, adventurous mountaineering at the Aravalli hills, unforgettable elephant picnics, antique shopping in the bustling markets, tours to world famous ancient forts and palaces and customised visits to an authentic Indian village, nearby.

Meetings with Views

Conduct business affairs at a location that is unique and unparalleled in beauty and charm. This Jaipur 5 star hotel, has a dedicated convention centre, ideal for premier product launches, gala dinners or grand weddings. With spacious lawns complementing the city’s largest convention hall and ably supported with five individually styled, state-of-the-art meeting rooms, Fairmont Jaipur encompasses the best of leisure and business, immersed in an atmosphere of tranquility and elegance.

ITC MUGHAL AGRA HOTEL: AGRA

The ITC Mughal is sprawled over 35 acres of luxurious gardens, and in close proximity to the Taj Mahal. The ITC Mughal is a 5 star luxury hotel in Agra representating Mughal architecture.

This luxury hotel comprises of 233 rooms and suites all offering a peak into the Mughal history and tradition through it’s design and architecture.

The structure is surrounded by Mughal gardens, fruit and flower bearing trees and shaded walkways.

Hotel amenities at the ITC Mughal includes cycling and jogging tracks, a mini-golfing green, a swimming pool and the spa Kaya Kalp – The Royal Spa, along with a range of gourmet fine dining options.

THE LALIT TEMPLE VIEW KHAJURAHO: KHAJURAHO

The Lalit Temple View Khjuraho overlooks the Western Group of Temples famed for their erotic sculptures. It is located just minutes away from the international airport and railway station.

The hotel features 47 rooms & suites, fine dining restaurants, a bar and Rejuve – the spa. Guests can enjoy a diverse range of leisure activities, from spa treatments and relaxing by the pool to programmes designed to fully immerse guests in the culture and traditions of “The City of Exotic Temples”. Sporting activities and facilities available includes a 4-hole putting green, table tennis, cricket, a jogging track and bicycles for hire.

NADESAR PALACE: VARANASI

The Nadesar Palace is a Taj hotel situated on the banks of the Ganges River. The hotel has hosted royalty, celebrities and other public figures since 1835. Nadesar Palace is set among leafy gardens, mango orchards, marigold and jasmine fields.

The hotel arranges a host of activities and excursions for guests. A buggy ride across the hotel grounds in a horse driven buggy which was once used by the Maharaja of Varanasi. The hotel butler arranges golf sessions out on the greens. Botanists takes guests on guided and informative nature walks. Yoga sessions are organised according to level of experience. Excursions to various places of interest around the city and boat trips across the Ganges are all part of the Nadesar Palace experience.

Note: Limited Availability, some hotels may not be available. Prices are per person.